The Film and Publications Board (FPB) stood by its decision to classify the painting “The Spear” with a rating of 16N, spokesman Prince Mlimandlela Ndamase said on Friday.
“We are still confident that the appropriate rating was provided, given the material that was submitted to the classification committee.”
Last month, the classification committee of the FPB gave artist Brett Murray's controversial painting, which depicts President Jacob Zuma with exposed genitals, a 16N rating.
The Goodman Gallery then launched an appeal against the classification of “The Spear”.
Ndamase said the FPB would provide its reasoning for the classification of the painting at the appeals tribunal.
“We are aware that the painting was defaced prior the classification, but we made our decision on the basis of complaints received from members of the public.”
Ndamase said it was not the FPB's job to classify paintings, but it was by law obliged to act if numerous complaints from the public were received.
“No complaints were received from politicians or high-ranking personalities.”
Ndamase could not provide the date for the appeal but said it would be given to the media when confirmed. – Sapa